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Saudi Arabia’s ban on women drivers is to be debated by a council that advises
the King, raising hopes that restrictions on the movement of women may be
relaxed.

The last time the Shura Council debated the issue, in 2006, it rejected
change, but then it was an all-male body. Now, for the first time, its 150
members include women — 30 were appointed by King Adbullah in January.

It agreed to reconsider the issue after receiving a petition of more than
3,500 names. The discussion, which will be televised, is certain to reignite
the public argument over women’s equality.